The motive behind the killing is being determined while police investigation is underway. However, a friend of the victim told Rappler that "the motive could have been a personal vendetta arising from a business deal or a traffic altercation."

Cali, who was well-loved by local MMA fans, rose to fame in 2012. He was dethroned as titleholder in the 125-lb. division by a Hawaiian challenger during the main event of PXC 41 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City in 2013.